Geddes, NY -- More than 40,000 old and tattered American flags draped over the wooden pyre and were set ablaze Sunday during a watchfire to remember U.S. service members who fought for their country, but never returned home.

Chapter 103 of the Vietnam Veterans of America sponsored the annual Memorial Day weekend event at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes. This was the 25th year the watchfire has been held at the fairgrounds, Vietnam veteran Joe McConnell said. He also said they are getting more flags from cemeteries throughout the county.

The large American flag that flew over the pile Sunday came from the White House in Washington, D.C., said Marine Vietnam veteran, Cameron Tomarchio.

The veterans leading the watchfire estimated 25,000 people attended Sunday's event. Last year, they said, about 20,0000 people attended.

Watchfires started in ancient times as a way for soldiers to find their way home from battle. The modern-day watchfire is meant to bring home all of the missing and deceased American soldiers, organizers have said.

More than 100 people also participated in an annual watchfire motorcycle ride, which raised $1,000 for the local Vietnam Veterans of America chapter, ride organizer and Geddes Town Supervisor Manny Falcone said.